Countries participating in the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup have begun announcing their final 26-man squads ahead of the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
The competition will be the largest in World Cup history, featuring 48 nations for the first time.
Several high-profile stars and veteran players have already been named in their respective squads, while some notable omissions have also sparked debate.
Veterans Set for More History
Among the biggest headlines is the inclusion of Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal’s squad, with the legendary forward set to feature in a record sixth World Cup.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is also preparing for a sixth appearance at the global showpiece, while Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has been selected for his sixth World Cup campaign.
Croatia have retained veteran midfielder Luka Modrić, who will compete at the age of 40, while Germany have recalled goalkeeper Manuel Neuer from international retirement to serve as their first-choice shot-stopper.
Star Players Lead Their Nations
Brazil will once again rely on Neymar, while France’s challenge will be spearheaded by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
Norway have included their star duo of Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, while Egypt’s hopes will rest largely on Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Senegal captain Sadio Mané has also been included, as has South Korea skipper Son Heung-min.
Notable Omissions and Injury Concerns
Several selections have generated discussion.
Spain named injured teenage sensation Lamine Yamal despite fitness concerns, while Morocco included defender Achraf Hakimi even though he is recovering from injury.
Japan left out winger Kaoru Mitoma due to injury, while Ivory Coast surprisingly omitted experienced forward Wilfried Zaha.
Uruguay selected Manuel Ugarte but left veteran striker Luis Suárez out of the squad.
Iran also made a major decision by excluding striker Sardar Azmoun.
Premier League Influence Remains Strong
Several squads feature a heavy Premier League presence.
The Netherlands squad is dominated by players based in England, while Belgium have retained striker Romelu Lukaku despite concerns over his recent form.
England, however, will travel without key stars Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
African Representation
Africa will be represented by strong contenders including Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, South Africa, DR Congo and Cape Verde.
DR Congo have named Premier League duo Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Yoane Wissa, while Algeria have handed a call-up to midfielder Zinedine Belaïd.
As final squad announcements continue, attention will now shift to preparations and warm-up matches before the opening game on June 11, when the world’s best players begin their quest for football’s most prestigious prize.
